High school students benefit from college classes

Who likes to save money and obtain a great education? I do! This past semester, I enrolled in a Palomar College course. As a student enrolled in a high school, I was able to take advantage of the dual enrollment program. When a high school student takes community college classes, the credits count for both high school and college. This is a wonderful option for hard working students who want to save money and receive a great education.

Enrolling in college courses as a high school student is quite an easy task. There is a form called the “Approval For K-12 (Non High School Graduate) Student /Graduation Verification of Minor (under 18).” It’s a simple form that requires basic information, a principal or counselor signature, and a parent signature. If you are 15 or under, the form requires an additional signature from the instructor of the course. It was easy to meet with my principal at Oasis, Melissa Marovich, and have her sign the approval form. Another time, the high school counselor Hector Barazza signed the form and also gave me some great information about college.

Many benefits come from taking community college courses. High school students do not have to pay tuition. The only major cost is textbooks when the course requires it. College courses are challenging and a great educational boost for hard working high school students. Additionally, high school students get to experience what it is like to take an actual college level course. As I’m taking a few college classes, I’m exploring my interest and what field I’d like to major in. It saves me money to be exploring this now while I don’t have to pay for the classes.

Last semester, I enrolled in Oceanography 100. The course lasted a full semester. It was a great class that I attended twice a week at the Escondido Palomar campus. I learned a lot about college while taking that course, and I also learned a lot in class. The professor was terrific. Also, the other college students in my class were great. For the spring semester, I’ve enrolled in a journalism class and an online psychology class. I’m excited to start my new educational adventures!

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